At the Mississippi Early Learning Alliance (MELA), we believe that significant, lasting change for children and families is best achieved through collective action. Our commitment to coalition building is central to our mission. We actively seek out and foster partnerships with diverse organizations, community leaders, businesses, and individuals who share our vision for a strong early childhood system in Mississippi. By uniting diverse voices, expertise, and resources, we amplify our collective impact, share best practices, and work collaboratively to advance common goals for the early childhood system in our state.
The Mississippi Forum For the Future is a
WE SERVE AS THE BACKBONE FOR THE FUTURE
WE PROMOTE THEPROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENTOF WOMEN OF COLOR
Too often, women of color have been expected to “leave parts of themselves at the door” in professional settings. Women of color frequently do not receive the respect, trust, and professional opportunities their qualifications and expertise demand. Across many fields – including early childhood care and education – women of color are not given access to the leadership roles that they ready and equipped to hold.
To help disrupt this unacceptable status quo, MELA created the Leading from Strength Empowerment Network. This network is designed to promote the professional advancement of highly-qualified women of color working in early childhood care and education. Members of each Leading from Strength cohort will engage in a series of learning experiences over the course of one year. These experiences are designed to honor and elevate members’ wisdom and lived experiences, foster collaboration among women across disciplines, and provide professional leadership training. We recognize each woman as the author and authenticator of her own growth and development – as such, Leading from Strength activities and experiences are designed to help women capitalize on their own inner strength and power.